The Honda S2000 is a legendary sports car that still excites driving fans years after it first came out. It has a high-revving VTEC engine, perfect 50:50 weight balance, and thrilling open-top driving. The S2000 is one of the best driver-focused roadsters ever made. This iconic Japanese sports car offers a unique mix of performance, reliability, and pure driving feel that’s hard to find in modern cars. In this guide, we’ll look at the history, performance, key features, and buying tips for this automotive gem. Whether you want a perfect collector’s item or an exciting weekend ride, we’ll help you explore Honda S2000 for sale options and understand why drivers love this car so much.
Key Takeaways:
- The Honda S2000 was made from 1999 to 2009, with two main versions: AP1 and AP2
- It has a high-revving VTEC engine that can go up to 9,000 RPM in early models
- Perfect 50:50 weight balance and rear-wheel drive make it handle exceptionally well
- Prices range from $25,000 for higher mileage cars to over $100,000 for rare versions
- The S2000 is seen as a future classic with good investment potential
- When buying, focus on maintenance history and overall condition more than just mileage
The Legacy of the Honda S2000
The Honda S2000 was made from 1999 to 2009, marking a decade of pure driving excitement. It was designed to celebrate Honda’s 50th anniversary. This rear-wheel-drive sports car quickly became a key part of Honda’s performance lineup and set a standard for roadsters worldwide. Honda made about 110,673 to 113,889 S2000s, making it a relatively rare and sought-after car. This limited production helps make it exclusive and increasingly collectible among car enthusiasts.
The S2000 had two main versions during its lifetime:
- AP1 (1999-2003): The original model, with a 2.0-liter VTEC engine known for its incredibly high redline and quick throttle response
- AP2 (2004-2009): An updated version with a slightly larger 2.2-liter engine and improved handling, offering a more balanced driving experience
The main differences between these versions are in their engine tuning, suspension setup, and overall handling. The AP1 is known for revving higher, with a 9,000 RPM redline that was unheard of for a production car at the time. It gives an intense, thrilling experience that purists often prefer. The AP2, on the other hand, offers a bit more low-end torque and slightly more forgiving handling, making it more suitable for daily driving while still keeping the S2000’s exciting character.
The S2000 remains highly respected and sought-after because of its unique mix of performance, reliability, and pure driving feel. Its naturally aspirated engine, manual transmission, and balanced chassis make it a favorite among driving enthusiasts who appreciate a connected, analog driving experience. The car’s timeless design, both inside and out, has aged well, further adding to its lasting appeal. As modern sports cars increasingly rely on turbocharging and electronic aids, the S2000’s pure, mechanical nature becomes even more special, cementing its place in automotive history.
Why the Honda S2000 is a True Driver’s Car
The Honda S2000 earned its reputation as a driver’s car through cutting-edge engineering and a focus on pure driving enjoyment. It was developed using Honda’s racing experience, resulting in a car that delivers track-level performance in a road-legal package. Let’s look at the performance highlights that make this roadster so special:
High-Revving VTEC Engines
The heart of the S2000 is its high-revving four-cylinder engine, a masterpiece of engineering that shows Honda’s skill in getting maximum performance from naturally aspirated engines:
- AP1 (1999-2003): 2.0-liter F20C engine producing 237-247 hp (depending on the market) with an incredibly high 9,000 RPM redline
- AP2 (2004-2009): 2.2-liter F22C1 engine with slightly different characteristics, offering more low-end torque while still maintaining a high redline
Both engines use Honda’s VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology, an advanced system that changes valve timing and lift to optimize performance across the entire rev range. This technology allows for an incredible 9,000 RPM redline in early models, a figure that was unheard of in production cars at the time and remains impressive even today. This high-revving nature gives the S2000 a unique character, with explosive performance above 6,000 RPM that rewards drivers who aren’t afraid to push the engine to its limits.
Lightweight Design and Exceptional Handling
Weighing just 2,800 lbs (1,260 kg), the S2000 is a lightweight sports car that prioritizes agility and responsiveness. This low weight, combined with its perfect 50:50 weight distribution, contributes to exceptional balance and handling. The car’s engineers paid close attention to weight distribution, placing the engine behind the front axle to achieve a front-mid-engine layout. This setup, typically found in much more expensive sports cars, provides near-perfect balance and allows for incredibly precise handling.
The rear-wheel-drive layout and sophisticated suspension system provide precise control and feedback to the driver. The S2000 has a double-wishbone suspension at all four corners, a design typically reserved for high-performance and racing vehicles. This suspension setup allows for excellent wheel control throughout the suspension’s movement, contributing to the car’s renowned handling prowess and road-holding abilities.
Close-Ratio 6-Speed Manual Transmission
The S2000 comes with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that’s often praised for its short throws and precise engagement. This gearbox perfectly complements the high-revving engine, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its sweet spot for maximum performance. The transmission’s design focuses on performance driving, with gear ratios carefully chosen to maintain optimal engine speed during spirited driving or track use.
The shifter itself is a work of art, with a titanium shift knob (in later models) and a mechanism that provides a satisfying mechanical feel with each gear change. The short throw and precise gates make gear changes a joy, encouraging drivers to shift frequently and engage more deeply with the driving experience. This level of driver involvement is a key factor in the S2000’s reputation as a true enthusiast’s car.
Comparison with Modern Roadsters
While modern roadsters like the Mazda MX-5, BMW Z4, and Porsche Boxster offer their own unique driving experiences, the Honda S2000 stands out for its raw, connected feel and high-revving naturally aspirated engine. Many enthusiasts say the S2000 provides a more pure and engaging driving experience compared to its more modern counterparts. Here’s how it compares:
- Engine Character: The S2000’s high-revving naturally aspirated engine offers a linear power delivery and immediate throttle response that many turbocharged modern engines can’t match.
- Driver Engagement: With its manual-only transmission and lack of electronic driving aids (in early models), the S2000 demands more from its driver, resulting in a more involving and rewarding experience.
- Simplicity: The S2000’s relatively simple design, free from complex electronics and driver assists, offers a more direct connection between car and driver.
- Performance Envelope: While modern roadsters may offer higher outright performance figures, the S2000’s balanced chassis and high-revving engine allow drivers to explore the car’s performance limits more frequently and safely on public roads.
Honda S2000 vs Modern Roadsters
Driving Experience
Engine Character
Transmission Feel
Weight Distribution
What to Look for When Buying a Used Honda S2000
If you’re looking to buy a used Honda S2000, there are several key things to consider to make sure you’re getting a well-maintained car. The S2000 is known for being reliable, but like any performance car, proper maintenance is crucial. Here’s what to look out for:
Checking the Condition
When inspecting a potential purchase, pay close attention to these common issues:
- Clutch wear: The S2000’s clutch can wear out, especially if the car has been driven hard. A clutch nearing the end of its life may slip when you accelerate hard or have a high engagement point. Replacing it can be expensive, so keep this in mind when budgeting.
- Transmission synchros: Listen for any grinding or difficulty shifting, especially in lower gears. The S2000’s transmission is generally strong, but synchros can wear over time, especially in cars that have been used on tracks.
- Soft-top condition: Check for tears, leaks, or wear around where the frame touches. The soft top should open and close smoothly. New tops can be expensive, so make sure it’s in good shape.
- Suspension wear: Look for signs of uneven tire wear or unusual noises when driving over bumps. The S2000’s suspension parts, especially bushings and ball joints, may need attention on higher mileage cars.
- Engine health: The F20C and F22C1 engines are known for being durable, but make sure regular oil changes have been done. Listen for any unusual noises, especially at high RPMs.
- Body and frame condition: Check for signs of accident damage or rust, especially in the rear quarter panels and around the windshield frame.
It’s important to review the car’s maintenance history. Regular oil changes and proper care are essential for the S2000’s high-performance engine. A good service history can give you peace of mind and might justify a higher asking price. Look for records of timing chain tensioner updates, valve adjustments, and other model-specific maintenance items.
Mileage vs. Price Considerations
When it comes to the Honda S2000, mileage isn’t always the most important factor. Here’s why:
- Low-mileage premium: S2000s with very low mileage (under 50,000 miles) often cost a lot more. These cars are particularly attractive to collectors and those wanting a nearly new driving experience.
- Well-maintained high-mileage examples: Don’t be afraid of S2000s with higher mileage if they’ve been well-maintained. Many have gone over 200,000 miles with proper care, showing how well Honda built these cars.
- Sweet spot: Cars with mileage between 70,000 and 120,000 miles often offer the best value, balancing wear and tear with price.
- Usage patterns: Think about how the car has been used. A higher mileage car that’s been driven regularly might be in better shape than a low-mileage car that’s been sitting for long periods.
The key is to find a balance between mileage, condition, and price. A well-maintained higher mileage car might be a better deal than a neglected low-mileage one. Always prioritize condition and maintenance history over absolute mileage figures.
Where to Find the Best Honda S2000 Listings
When searching for a Honda S2000, it’s important to look in various places to find the best options. The car’s cult following and increasing collectibility mean that the best examples can sell quickly, so having a good search strategy is crucial. Here are some of the top places to look:
- Specialized car listing websites: Sites like AutoTempest, Bring a Trailer, and Cars & Bids often have well-maintained S2000s and can be great for finding rare or particularly clean examples.
- Honda enthusiast forums and marketplaces: Websites like S2Ki.com have sections where knowledgeable owners often list their cars. These can be excellent sources for finding well-cared-for examples with detailed history.
- Local dealerships specializing in performance or Japanese cars: Some dealerships focus on enthusiast vehicles and may have S2000s in stock. They can also help in finding a specific model or spec you’re after.
- Auction sites for rare or particularly well-preserved examples: For collectors or those seeking the best possible examples, auction sites like RM Sotheby’s or Gooding & Company occasionally feature low-mileage or special edition S2000s.
- Social media platforms: Facebook Marketplace and enthusiast groups can be good sources for local listings and community insights.
- General classifieds: While less specialized, sites like AutoTrader and Craigslist can sometimes yield good finds, especially for more budget-friendly options.
It’s crucial to buy from reputable dealers or verified sellers to reduce the risk of buying a problematic car. Always ask for detailed photos, service records, and if possible, a professional inspection before buying. For rare versions like the Club Racer (CR), authenticity is very important, so additional verification may be needed.
To make your search easier, you can use Carsnip to filter and find the best Honda S2000 for sale listings. This platform gathers listings from various sources, making it easier to compare options and find the best deal. Carsnip’s advanced filtering options can help you narrow down your search based on specific criteria like model year, mileage, and price range, saving you time in your quest for the perfect S2000.
Specialized Car Listing Websites
Dedicated automotive marketplaces with wide selection and filtering options
Honda Enthusiast Forums
Community-driven marketplaces with knowledgeable sellers and buyers
Performance Car Dealerships
Local dealers specializing in sports and Japanese vehicles
Honda S2000 Price Trends & Investment Potential
The Honda S2000 has become much more valuable in recent years, as more enthusiasts and collectors want them. This trend is likely to continue as fewer well-maintained examples are available and people appreciate old-school sports cars more. Here’s what you need to know about the current market:
- Entry-level prices start around $25,000 for higher mileage cars or those needing some work
- Well-maintained, low-mileage cars can cost $50,000 or more, with prices continuing to go up
- Rare versions like the Club Racer (CR) can cost between $50,000 to $100,000, with some exceptional examples going for even more
- Early AP1 models (1999-2003) are becoming more sought after for their pure, high-revving character
- Late model AP2s (2006-2009) are valued for their refined driving feel and rarity, especially in certain colors
The S2000 is widely seen as a future classic, with its limited production numbers, high-performance capabilities, and old-school driving experience making it appealing as an investment. Its status as one of the last naturally aspirated, high-revving sports cars from a major car maker further cements its place in car history.
Future Market Trends
Experts think S2000 values will keep going up, especially for well-maintained, original examples. Several factors contribute to this outlook:
- Increasing rarity: As more S2000s are modified, crashed, or fall into disrepair, the number of original, well-maintained examples decreases, driving up values for the best cars.
- Growing appreciation for analog sports cars: As modern vehicles become more computerized and assisted, the pure driving experience offered by the S2000 becomes more desirable.
- Historical significance: The S2000’s place in Honda’s performance history and its unique engineering make it an important model for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
- Generational factor: As millennials who grew up admiring the S2000 start earning more money, demand for well-preserved examples is likely to increase.
The AP1 models (1999-2003) are often favored by purists for their higher-revving engines and more raw driving experience. These early models, especially in desirable colors and with low mileage, are likely to see strong appreciation.
AP2 models (2004-2009) offer slightly more refined driving dynamics and are the choice for those seeking a more balanced daily driver. Late model AP2s, particularly those from 2006-2009, are becoming increasingly collectible due to their rarity and status as the final evolution of the S2000.
The Club Racer (CR) variant, made in limited numbers during the final two years of production, is expected to see the most significant value appreciation due to its rarity and track-focused features. With only 699 units made for the US market, the CR is already commanding premium prices and is likely to continue its upward trajectory.
| Year | Model | Price Range | Market Trend |
| 1999-2003 | AP1 | £25,000 – £50,000+ | Appreciating |
| 2004-2007 | AP2 | £25,000 – £50,000+ | Stable |
| 2008-2009 | AP2 (Late Model) | £30,000 – £60,000+ | Appreciating |
| 2008-2009 | Club Racer (CR) | £50,000 – £100,000 |
